day by day
So many people are asking how we are doing. Honestly, we often want to answer "horrible". The ache we feel as we grieve the loss of our little girl and how much we miss her is something I can't even describe. Really, we are doing OK (which is what we usually tell people). We are taking things day by day. We couldn't make it through this in our own strength. It is the HOPE that we have in Jesus that is getting us through each day. For that we are so thankful.
We are officially home now. We had been staying with my parents since we got back from Colorado. It was too hard to go home. Our house is SO quiet without Cora. This weekend we felt like it was time to go home though. It has been good to be in our own house. We haven't slept in our own bed for over a month! But it has been hard too. We miss Cora and it doesn't feel "right" to be here without her. The evenings are the worst for me. Thankfully this is when Joel is home. Can I just say that my husband is wonderful?! I can't imagine going through this without him. He has been a rock when I need him to be, but also so willing to talk and cry with me. Joel is amazing, but he desperately misses his little girl too. Pray for strength for him as he continues to work and figure out how to lead our family through this hard path we are on.
"When all that is good falls apart,
what can good people do?"
The LORD is in his holy temple;
the LORD sits on his throne in heaven.
Psalm 11:3-4
I read this verse this morning and found myself having this same question that David did. What do I do when I feel like my world is falling apart? What do I do without Cora? I know that God is good. I know that He is in his holy temple. I know that He is sitting on His throne in heaven. And I know that my sweet Cora is in His loving arms. But my heart still aches. Joel and I have decided that all we can do is cling to His truth. Even though we don't understand and it doesn't make sense. God is unaltered by our storms. He can use our tragedies to bring glory to His name. We have been so blessed to already see evidence of how God is using Cora's story to draw people to Himself. How awesome!
So, that is a glimpse into our lives right now. We are so thankful that people are continuing to pray for us. We are so thankful for our friends and family and how our community is surrounding us with such love. We are thankful for the encouragement from all our new blog friends.
Now I am off to my mom's house to continue crafting. There are many dresses that are about ready to be listed in our shop. We are hoping to fill up our shop tonight or tomorrow. Keep checking back!
posted by the mcclenahans @ 9:51 AM
138 Comments:
You are continually on my mind and in my prayers.
A blog friend in WA,
Maureen
I have been following your blog since I received an email about your beautiful daughter and I just sit and cry as I can't imagine your pain. You are an amazing family and God must be so proud of all of you and what an awesome witness you are for Him and His glory. May God be with you from now until forever as you grieve and as you move forward. God is good!
Blessings,
The Bressler's
Hang in there--grieving is hard work.
Thoughts and prayers from Wisconsin
God Bless you both. Cling to each other for strength.
hey Jess! Thanks for posting! I'm praying for you and Joel so much here! Wish I could walk down to your house for a visit. Love you!
I continue to follow daily and understand how difficult it is for you. I believe that God will give you the strength you need and that Cora will always be your shining light.
When you've done all you can do to stand, just stand.
I can't even imagine the pain and roller coaster of emotions from hope, to sadness, to despair, to relief, to guilt for being smiling and laughing occasionally. Just hold tight to each other and to God.
I don't know how, but you will make it. You will.
You are loved and prayed for daily by our family.
You and your family have not left my thoughts or prayers in weeks!! I will continue to keep lifting you to Him!! I think it is an awesome thing you and Cora's grammy's are doing to honor you little girl!! You truely are Godly people who have been through more emotions in one year than most go through in a lifetime!! Praying, praying, praying!!! I'm loving the dresses as well!!
Rhiannon in Indiana
Jess,
You and Joel are continually in my family's thoughts and prayers. I prayed for you this morning on my way to work along with some family friends who are going through a bad patch. My job every day is to type about sick babies and little people and so you and Joel and little Cora are never very far from my mind...please, know that there are so many blessings and hope being sent your direction from every little nook of our world. Take care and give that man of yours a hug. He's a great partner to be walking through this world with. *HUGS*
~ Heather
still praying for you.
grace and peace-
robyn, milwaukee
I continue to pray for you and Joel. Your faith is amazing...you are going through this tragedy and are encouraging me with your words/faith. I wish I could do more for you and your family. I am so thankful that I came across your blog and have been able to lift you up in prayer.
I check your blog every day to see how you guys are doing, and i've never even met you! My heart went out to your sweet, adorable little angel, and it goes out to you and your hubby as well. You are continually in my thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you often.
Still praying for you. I miss Cora for you and I've never even met her!
Someone was selling a necklace in their etsy shop for Cora Paige that said "be inspired". That is what you and Joesl are doing for me"inspiring me" to be a better person, to look deeper into my faith oh for so many reasons. THANK YOU FOR POSTING. I continue to think of you and beautiful Cora day and night. A day doesnt't go by that I am not in tears. I don't know how you do it even with your amazing faith..Just know that you are AMAZING to me..Oh how I wish I could take your pain away. I know how empty these words must seem but they come from the heart..
Kim(alabama)
Oh how my heart aches for you and Joel. It has to be such a hard road to face but your faith in God is so unwaivering through this difficult time. You guys are an encouargement to many. It is awesome to see you and Cora's grammies making dresses and opening up an Etsy shop to honor your little girl. She is the shining light of this project and your inspiration to continue to make a name for your precious angel. She has truly made an impact on thousands and for that her name will he shouted from the Heavens forever. Thank you for continuing to post so we can know exactly how to pray for you and Joel. I will continue to pray for your strength and peace that only God can deliver to help you through this difficult ordeal. Your family is always in my thoughts and prayers and I will continue to lift you up for days, weeks, months, and years to come as you continue down the road to peace and comfort.
In Christ,
Amber
jess...you precious thing you! i am so praying for you and joel every day...many times. your feelings are so sincere...and i am so glad that our Lord never changes and that in the midst of all that you are facing, that you stand firm on the faithful one, knowing that He never changes. oh that makes me happy...and i know you will find strength in that too.
today on my blog for tuesday's tribute, i am donating $1 a comment in honor of tuesday whitt and your sweet cora to neuroblastoma research. i know it doesn't make life easier or your pain less, but please know that cora is still making a difference!
I have been following your blog since the day before Cora's death but I have left only one prior comment. You don't know me but I feel very close to you and Joel and most especially little Cora. I have not spoken because I cry every time I stop by and I have feared that my comments would do nothing to lift you. But I must tell you that you are an inspiration to so many who read and never comment. You will never know. It is easy to speak the Christian word when all is well but in the deepest of valleys the truth is revealed. What is revealed in you by your constant reliance on God is unfaltering love for and confidence in the goodnes of our God the Father. You're response to the most horrible loss a parent could endure is glorifying God. Nothing can remove the hurt of Cora's death. Even I still grieve and I'm only an observer. Give yourself permission to grieve and continue to show the world that God is good. Thank you so much for sharing your faith with us all. God bless - Sharon
Joel and Jess-
We are continuing to pray for you as you grieve and adjust to life without your little girl.I cannot imagine the pain you feel, but always remember that we have a great God who uses even devastating circumstances for His Glory. If you continue to trust in Him, he will faithfully lead you through this deep valley. Your family has been an amazing witness and inspiration to many of us. Hang on to God's promises and to each other, and the peace, that only He can give, will come. Cherish all the wonderful memories you have of little Cora. God must have needed that special little angel, and he chose you, Joel, and Cora to bring Glory to His Name. We will continue to hold your family before God's throne. Love from a blog reader in NE Kansas
I think of you and your family often and keep you in my prayers. It pains me to think of your loss and I cannot imagine how you must feel.
I hope I'm fast enough to snag something from your shop this time! I was much too slow last time!
Im crying again with you today. I think of you the most at evenings..... as I did when it all happened so suddenly. We have so many questions...but you never have to share that sad time with us. I was so in shock to hear about this little girls lost fight to cancer.
I cried MANY, MANY nights and at random times I still do when I think of you and Cora. Mostly about you as a mothers broken heart. You are so wounded. I have experienced this over the years through my aunt who lost my cousin in a car accident. Her only daughter.
I am so proud of Joel for being so Godly and such a loving husband and father. Cora was so blessed, as blessed as you both were to have her.
I know this month will be the hardest, because you will not have a birthday party to plan for.... but in truth, I think you do have a party to plan for...THE BIG PARTY.... and the more people you two continue to lead to Jesus, those are invites to THE BIG PARTY and one day we will all celebrate with one another, even little Cora. Can you see it??? Oh what a day it will be. I know it can't get here fast enough for you, sister,....but just think... we want that party to be the biggest it can be and until then YOU (we) all have some work to do.
Thank you for constantly showing me how I want my faith to be with God.
Love and blessings.
What a legacy your little Cora has left and what an inspiration you all have been. I am so amazed in the strength that you have found. I pray for your family every day and will continue to do so.
Kristi Wasemiller
I cannot imagine your pain, but am so thankful you find peace in the Lord. It breaks my heart to even think of losing a child, and here you are in the midst of your grief, still bringing glory to God.
Praying for you in Wichita!
Jess,
Thank you for being REAL with us and for continuing to share the steps & stones of this journey with us, your faithful readers.
I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to be back at home without sweet Cora. But I know many are on their knees for you and Joel. God will continue to provide strength for your weakness.
The rushing river of grief that fills your heart will eventually abate. I've seen it happen. My mom lost my little sister at birth when I was 16. It seemed like everything reminded us of our loss and pain. All goodness was shadowed by it. It will not always be so. But it does take a lot of time.
You are in my thoughts and prayers daily,
Christy Klein
We will t contunie to lift you up in prayers as go through the grief process. Blessings
Megan
I started reading not too long ago and every time I open your page I just dissolve into tears. Your strength is amazing. My daughter, Stella is 10 months old. I just can't imagine and I know you hear that all the time but you are in my prayers. I'm not one to pray that often, but for you and your sweet baby girl, I will. Everyday.
Throughout the day I find myself stopping in my tracks, It literally makes me breathless knowing that there are mothers out there with the ultimate broken heart... It is something I think about often but cannot fathome... I just want you to know that you are so so loved, your husband is so so loved and your little Cora is so so loved and thought about every second of the day by thousands of people. I just wish that I could carry atleast a little of the pain and grief for you so that you can be at peace...
My thoughts and prayers are with your family...
My tears and prayers pour out for you. I can't imagine the hurt that you both are feeling. I know it is soooo hard to remember that the lord makes no mistakes I know that you might not question it but I can't help but to. She is such a beautiful baby girl. I continue to pray for you as does my husband last night as we were eating dinner i shared your story with him and then we prayed we prayed hard that you and your husband can find peace and the hurt will begin to ease a little.
with prayers from lamesa texas
Josh and Laura Jeffcoat
jeffcoat.laura@yahoo.com
You are precious...one of the most precious souls I have ever read about. Your words are beautiful and your faith...amazing. What an inspiration you are to others and what an inspiration your story is and will continue to be. My heart literally aches for you and I am praying for you daily.
Kelli (from Atlanta)
Continuing to lift you in prayer. Your strength is amazing.
jess,
I think about you every single morning, especially when I see my daughter. I haven't prayed since college, but I have prayed for you and your family every day since reading your story a month ago. I check your blog daily. We almost lost our son at two weeks old. He had open heart surgery ten hours after our two week well-visit where I thought everything was fine. He was flown in a helicopter to Stanford without me, & I thought THAT was hard. We were so fortunate that he made it, but not a day goes by that I don't think about it. I don't know what I would have done or how I would have coped. You are such an inspiration to me. You have such faith and I do think that is the only way to survive a loss like this. I admire that so much. I will continue to think about you and pray for you and Joel.
Take Care,
Sara
Your faith in God is truly uplifting. I continue to pray for you and check in with you (your blog) daily. It was good to get a review..was getting worried :) Can not wait to see the new dresses! Sending you much love and prayer,
Liz
Jess, I pray that you can continue to hold fast to God's word. It is the only thing that can adn will carry you and your precious husband throught this time of deep grief that no one else can understand. When I suffered a tragic loss seven years ago the WORD was the ONLY thing that kept going and still keeps me at times. His promises adn words kept rushing back to me sometimes loud and clear and soemtimes still and soft but always true and with comfort for where I was in my grief. Seven years later my husband and I both know that still only God understands where we are each day in our grief (ours was not the loss of a child but of his mother although it was an accident involving our son). Seven years later we are still very much in that grievign process adn it is okay, we have finally given ourselves permission to be there and the freedom to allow ourselves to fully grieve. I pray for you, that the Lord will help you to have the freedom to be exactly where you are in this hard process today...to not be worried about where the world may make you feel you should be or what the world may you feel like. Sometimes it seems that your world has stopped but the rest of the world is still moving... you are right, your world did stop when sweeet Cora died. It is okay for you to stay there and allow the Lord to work in you there for a while before movign on. Trust him to lead you through the grieving processes. I am praying for you often and you are right, you have a precious husband who certainly loves you and his Lord!
You both are still in our prayers too- constantly. We have 4 children, so they remind us so much of Cora, especaily our youngest daughter. Cora's story has made an impact on our lives...encouraging us to treasure our precious children even more than we already did- and to always be thankful for each day of life God graciously grants. Her story encourages us to steadfastly seek His will and rest in Him even more too--God's ways are perfect, even when we don't understand. We must live continually to glorify Him- as that is our purpose in life. He will give the strength that is needed day by day. We rejoice that this is the case in your family. That brings glory to Him!
Your Family In Christ,
Ben and Joy and kiddos
in Colorado
Your family continues to be in my daily thoughts and prayers... I plan on buying one of your pretty dresses for my baby girl. Your faith and prayers to God have truly inspired me to always keep Him close to my heart. My family is sending love and comfort your way...
Megan Barber
Ames, IA
You and Joel are in my prayers. Your faith is amazing. I think of you so often!
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You continue to be in my daily prayers. My heart goes out to you and Joel and all you are feeling. I remember after I lost my babies that evening was the absolute hardest. Something about the darkness and quiet of it all. Know I am praying for you in those times.
Hugs and prayers from Indiana!
What a wonderful verse. Thank you for bringing it to me today. I continue to pray for you daily.
You are such an amazing example of what your love for God can do to bring so much good out of such tragedy. The scripture you quoted in your post so beautifully describes the faith that we should have in our Lord, most especially when life throw us things that threaten to tear us down. May your faith continue to guide you, and the others whose hearts you've touched, to a closer relationship with God. I know you've done that for me, and I hope to pass that on to others in my life.
It's all for His glory, and through Him we will continue to gather strength. I will continue to pray for you and Joel. My heart goes out to you.
you guys are so strong! I'm praying for you :)
I think of your sweet family every single day, and include you in every prayer. Even though I have only known of Cora through your blog, she and you both have touched my heart and soul in ways I cannot even express. You are suffering such an unimaginable pain and loss, and I agree that without the Lord to get us through our difficult times I don't know how it could be done.
My prayers are with you always,
Kristi in Virginia
I feel so sorry for you.
We are still praying for you.
Blessings from Norway
Wib
I continue to be inspired by your strength and your commitment through your grief. I suspect that this sentiment is shared by believers like myself and non-believers alike. Thank you for being an example of faithfulness. Continuing to pray for you and your families. God bless you and make His face shine upon you.
I have no words that really matter, but please know that you continue to be in my prayers. I linked to your blog a couple of days ago so that some of my family and friends could join in lifting your family up to the Lord. The strength of your family lifts me up everyday. Thank you. God Bless you.
Tricia
My heart goes out to you.
My sister lost a little boy to congenital heart problems when he was two and I remember the desperation she felt and the struggle. His death affected everyone in the family and it was such a sad period but they/we all got through it one day at a time.
You have my deepest sympathy. May God continue to bless and keep you and hold you close.
Praying for you even as I read your blog! Thank you for continuing to share your journey with us as you cling to Jesus!
Praying in Pa!!
I am a fellow blogger and I know you don't know me, but I think about you and your family everyday. My children and I pray for you every night and we thank God for your little Cora. I wish you continued strength and hope wish you luck on your journey to find some peace in your heart.
Rachel
Jess, I am teary-eyed reading your post. I just ache for you. Yesterday, I received a brooch from Joy's Hope that I had bought for Cora's Playground. I've been crafting & selling on etsy to raise money, and have been trying to do something, anything to help. As I opened my package, I pulled out the brooch and the papers inside. Julie had included a picture of Cora along with the receipt. I nearly had to pull over as I was overcome with such grief and the reality of why we are working so hard to raise money for this benefit. At that exact moment, "Mighty to Save" came on the radio - how fitting, one of the praise songs from Cora's memorial service. I have shed many tears for you - both for the magnitude of the pain you must be experiencing and for the beauty of our Savior's love - His mighty hand is upon you. I am so comforted to see how the Holy Spirit has stirred in so many people to surround you and Joel during this time. I am steadfast in praying for you and think of you so often throughout the day.
*Sorry for the lengthy post!*
Christine
May God fill you with his strength and hope as you look to him when you are empty. May you find complete joy in Him alone.
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Heb 15:13
I would never venture to say that I know what you are feeling, nor would I ever want to, but I thought that I would share my story (quickly) with you. In 2006 my father passed away in april, in August I was almost 8 months pregnant when we lost our first little girl and then a month later my mother died in my arms and at that moment I can remember asking God why I was being tested to this level. I now know that it was to make me a stronger person in my Faith and to truly learn about his love and his plan for me. I too know a little about loss and grief and the days to follow after everyone leaves and the phone quits ringing, I too know the sounds of an empty house. I again will never know exactly what you are going through but I do want you to know that no matter how sad you are now that things do get better, I can remember people telling me that I would see my little girl again one day and when I would hear that I would get so mad! I wanted her here with me now! Not later. But as the years have passed I can honestly say that it does get easier, I miss my parents and my little Paige more than words can express but with the love of my Heavenly Father I know that one day I will see them again. I also know without a doubt that your daughter had a purpose here on earth and she served it and continues to do so! I'm truly sorry for your loss, and I do keep you in my prayers and I've never even met you! May God Bless you and Keep you in his Arms. Jennifer Rogers
you are both in our prayers every night... prayers for peace and healing.
Our sermon this weekend was about how when we go through difficult times... it is now that God is working.
I thought of you then as I do every single day. And you don't know me... but my heart still breaks for you.
Your testimony is unlike anyone I have ever met. Cora's life was and is impactful and meaningful. Praise GOD for her!! ~Rachel
Though you don't know me, and I don't know you other than what you've posted, I think about you and your husband everyday, and pray for you often. My heart is so broken for you, and I can't even imagine how your heart feels. I get so frustrated thinking about your situation, and I know His ways are not our ways, and He would never do something unjust. I am completely blessed by your strength and faith. I love knowing that Cora has impacted the world in such an awesome way. Your family is such an inspiration, and I am glad God is able to use you, and your precious little girl in such a mighty way.
May you find peace in this process called grieving. I think of you all each and every day. Each time you two or your beautiful baby girl enter my mind, I say a prayer for you...I always say a prayer and ask God to give you the strength you need to continue on. Continue to hold each other close and I'm thankful you at least have each other. Thank you for sharing this journey with us too as I like to keep checking in to see how all is going. Lifting you up in prayer from Michigan....and thanking you also for such inspiration...I feel so much closer to God because of you.
You are amazing... Jesus in you is amazing!
May He be near to you, especially as evening approaches. May He rejoice over you in singing when the quiet is too much.
Keeping you in our prayers!
With tears running down my face,
Katrina from TN
We continue to pray that the peace of Christ will surround you every moment.
HI JESS I WOULD LIKE TO SEND YOU A LITTLE SOMETHING WHERE CAN I MAIL THINGS TO YOU AT. THANKS HOPE
What beautiful and honest look into your heart.
It has amazed me how easily the short lives of some very blessed little children can change the lives of some very lost adults.
It will forever be Cora's legacy.
Praying for your continued strength and faith.
Blessings.
Debi
well...my heart broke all over again for you...will be praying for you...I am so sorry...
May our Papa's consolation be a strong presence for you right now, May His Holy Spirit lift you and help you hurdle the pain...
again, I am so sorry...
blessings,
Sarah, an Oklahoma neighbor and sister-in-Christ
So many others have said it so much more eloquently than I can. I have been struggling with what to say since I came across your story several days ago. I, like so many others, have been deeply affected by your story and I just wanted you to know there is "one more" person out there praying often for your sweet family. Thanks for sharing your story and I hope that knowing what a postive example you have set for so many gives you some comfort.
With continued prayer...
Jana in Missouri
Praying without ceasing for you and Joel. I know Cora is watching over you both too.
Robin in Benton
Joel & Jess-
Everytime I read your blog my heart aches, but yet I find myself returning to check on how you are doing every day. I am amazed at the strength and steadfastness you have both shown in this difficult and trying time. I find myself wondering if something happened to my little girl would I be able to handle it even half as well you two have. I know you are taking it one day at a time which is exactly how you should be handling it.
Every day Morgan (my daughter) & I pray for you both and little Cora. I pray for peace...God's grace...His strength...blessings.. and guidance. I hug my Morgan a little tighter every time I think of your little Cora and my heart aches for all the things that will never be for her but am satisfied in knowing that she is now "Home". Please know you are a inspiration to many and your battle with Cora is leading many down the path to Jesus, now that is what I would consider someone living for God!
Proverbs 3:5,6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.
Thoughts and Prayers,
Amy & Morgan
You guys amaze and inspire me and I pray for peace for you both.
Tracy (Brisbane, Australia)
You are such an awesome family! Your faith will sustain you and help you carry on. Cora will always be loved and remembered. I lift you all up in prayer daily. I pray that one day (maybe not until eternity) you can see how complete God's plan is. I can't wait to get one of your beautiful dresses for my baby girl. Your willingness to share your lives has made me realize how truly precious each and every moment is. Love and prayers.
Marsha Hinkle-- VA
I was so glad to see a post about how you were doing...I know we don't know each other and will never meet, but I do think of you and hope you are doing well. I can not imagine going through what you are going through. I hug my 2 kids extra hard every night b/c I know not every parent has that luxury. I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers always.
Mommy In Indiana
You all are still in my thoughts & prayers. I can't even begin to imagine how you feel inside, but I know it must be the hardest thing for a person to feel. I'm glad to see that you continue to put trust & faith in God, and that you find strength in doing so. God bless you and your family, and you're in my thoughts.
I'm also glad to see the support your Etsy shop has gotten. I will be checking back to see if I can help out :)
Love and prayers,
Holly
I am one of the people that have been drawn closer to God through Cora. Your little girl is on my mind almost constantly and I have never met you. I have never talked to God so much. I am amazed by the strength you have through Him. I strive everyday to be closer to Him.
I know this doesn't ease your horrible pain at all. I just wanted you to know that Cora has changed my life. I am a better Christian because of your tiny girl!
I am praying for you guys. I can't pretend that I know what you're going through, but you are in my heart and my thoughts, and I am interceding for you. ((hugs)) I am so so sorry.
Love Melody
CA
I love that you are so firm in your faith. Your family has an amazing story and has even encouraged my faith as I have read. In my faith, also Christian, we believe 100% that families are forever. You will see Cora again. Hold her. Love her. I lost my father and knowing that the Lord would never take permanently, something to dear to me has always been a comfort. One day you will still get to raise Cora through the power and love the Lord has for both of you - he will not take something so dear and precious and righteous from you. Maybe just delay it for a time.
I can't even imagine what you are going through. I would love to say be strong. Instead cry, cry for your precious Cora. But know that when you are "weak" God is holding you too and Cora is right there with him. You are both in my heart. So many people are lifting you up in prayer.
I have been praying for you all day today.
Angie in Texas
Still praying for you as well....
~Keri
Your story has touched so many lives...Cora lives on! She is absolutely an angel and I thank you for sharing her with us. I know you don't "know" us, but we are praying for you here in Iowa. My heart breaks for you and we are praying that you continue to use Him to guide you through the toughest hours. You and Joel are amazing parents!! Your little guardian angel is pain-free now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!!
Still praying for you. Also, the things in your etsy shop are beautiful and I hope they continue to sell.
A group of friends are running in a race on March 14 to benefit children with neuroblastoma... I'm running for Cora and for a cure! Thank you for sharing your heart with us- praying big for you and Joel.
- A blog friend from Atlanta :)
I don't know if you have heard of this website yet but www.glowinthewoods.com is a site where parents are holding each other up also. I hope that perhaps you may find some comfort there.
My prayers are with you and your entire family as you go day by day through a journey that I cannot begin to fathom. Your grace is an inspiration.
You might want to read the blog adailyscoop.blogspot.com. She lost a child as well and is an amazing writer.
I think of Cora daily and I continue to pray for you guys. Cora's life has touched so many people, even those that never met her. Her life has left it's mark in this world, my only prayer is that I can do the same in my life what your sweet Cora did in hers. You are so lucky to be blessed with such an amazing little girl and she is so blessed to have such wonderful parents as you.
Hugs and prayers,
Heather~ On the Homefront
Thank you for sharing baby Cora your story with us all. It has been so inspiring to listen as you tell about how God has been helping you through this all. I can't even imagine how hard each day must be for you.(I leave your blog each day sobbing wishing there was something that could bring her back to her loving family.) Since the day I came across your blog I have thought and prayed for you and your family. Cora is a precious little angel who has touched so many of our lives. Thank you again for sharing her and continuing to inspire with your words, scripture, and crafts.
Your Blog Friend from Manhattan Kansas,
Emily
Knowing that you will have a family in heaven with Cora once more is comforting -- but I pray that your arms are filled and your heart overflows once more here in this world.
Thank you for letting us know how you're doing! Your story and faith is humbling.
We'll continue to pray for comfort, peace, strength, clarity and the JOY of the Lord to fill your hearts through this terrible time. You're in our thoughts.
Prayers from Columbus, Ohio
I am just another person to add to your already long list of comments. I stumbled across your blog in a way that I can't remember. I believe I was led by the Spirit to you and Cora's story. After reading about your last month or so, I have been brought to my knees more times than I can ever remember. Giving prayers of faith, hope, comfort and graditude for the blessing of your story in my life. You two are inspiring to me, and upon personal reflection, I realized that, had I been put in your position, I don't know that I would have had the faith required to continue to stand. You have helped me see that I need to work on my own relationship with my Savior, so that I can stand faithful as you have. Thanks for all that you have shared. God's hands are working through you! And Cora is one of those angels He sent here to draw His children unto Him! How proud you must be of your little girl.
A grateful Mother from Utah,
Mandy
It's ok to feel like everything is terrible, as long as that verse stays in your mind as well. There have been so many times that I just said "OK" when I should have been honest with those around me and let them lift me up in prayer!!
You are in my prayers daily!
I pray for you daily. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I know that God is doing an amazing thing with the horrible situation you are in. May God continue to bless you and Joel!
I just wanted to tell you that my son and I pray for you daily. Each night before I put him to bed we say a prayer for you and Joel and baby Cora. We can't wait to meet her when we get to heaven ourselves. I have always been a believer in God and I know that he does amazing things. However, I have struggled with your loss for weeks. I know that he does things for a reason and I am continuing daily to see what that was. My father is in a nursing home at the age of 59. He has what is called Catasil Syndrome and he is ready to meet him maker. I have talked to him about baby Cora and how it has affected me since I just had my little boy 3 months ago. I know that if he was asked he would give up his life for another. He will protect and look after baby Cora when he gets to heaven himself. He has alway had a soft spot for children...he should of had 10 children instead of 2. Continue on that path that God is given you and Joel and I honestly believe that he is providing you a wonderful path for the future.
christianspivey.blogspot.com
Your strength and faith are an inspiration. Hold on to one another.
Prayers and hugs are being sent to you both.
Denise
Praying for you this week!
Thanks for the update. We've been wondering how you are surviving. We're still praying for you every single day. What a wonderful verse to meditate on.
Just praying continually for your family-I cannot imagine what you are going through. My heart aches so much for you and I know you are trusting the Lord, but know it is still so hard. I have a granddaughter about the same age as Cora and I cannot imagine living here on earth without her-so I also pray for the grandparents. I feel a small connection to you all because I am from Newton but now living in Arkansas and I do know some peope who know you all. My mom still lives in Newton too. I cannot wait to see the playground your Church will have because of Cora.
you are still in my thoughts and prayers!
Em
from Australia
We are praying for you...thanks for letting us know how you're doing. Hugs from Illinois!
You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. Praying for peace and hope.
Your friend in Christ-
Aimee from Minnesota
Praying for you daily...
Oh, you are so much in my prayers!!!
Jess, it is 6:30pm in Dallas and I am praying for you. Been reading since Cora was in the hospital and am commenting for the first time. My little girl is 7 mos and I often find myself struggling through the early evening - those tough hours with a little one. Tonight I am lifting you up to Jesus, knowing you are missing the nighttime hours you've had with Cora. Jess, what you and Joel are going through has had an incredible impact on me. The Spirit so often lays you both, complete strangers and yet Family, on my heart. I felt myself grieving heavily when Cora died. I sensed God showing me that I had yet to entrust my daughter to Him. Can I just tell you that I'm praying for you guys all the time? The Father sure cares for you both, for Him to lay you on the hearts of so many of us who have never once glimpsed you.
May God be your strength to face each day. We adopted a little boy from Haiti in October and he saw me crying after Cora went to be with Jesus. He said "I'll ask my momma to hold her baby." Luke just asked Jesus in his heart on Jan. 8th and so I think he knows your pain as he pictures his momma in heaven. We just moved to the Elbing area at Christmas time and are praying for you daily in our homeschool prayer time.
Blessings,
Ronda Beougher
our blog is finally-four.blogspot.com
Lots and lots of prayers for you guys from Illinois. You are never far from our minds and hearts. If we never get to meet here, I pray we get to meet in Heaven, some day! Our little girls can all play together!
Kelli <><<
Cling to God and to each other. We are not here to question what is right or wrong. God does have a plan for Cora. She is with God who loves her more than anyone could. My prayers and thoughts are with you and Joel.
Praying for you today.
I can't imagine your pain...God bless you!
Jess thanks for keeping us in touch with you and your family. I will continue to pray for all of you. Continue to know that God is with every step of the way and He understands your pain. Looking forward to seeing more stuff in your shop I missed everything last time cause I was to slow that day.
Love In Christ
Courtney
I think about if it was my child and I well up with tears and its so hard to think about I have to think something else and I'm not going through it. I think I want to ask if you are OK, and then I think how can it be OK after this? What an insensitive thing to ask. I pray for you daily, sometimes multiple times daily. Some how it doesn't seem like much. If I lived there I'd bring you dinner or a hug. If I drove there you'd think I was crazy. I see everything going on Etsy and that is so heart warming. I guess what I'd like to know is if there you need... or is it just to know you aren't alone, because you're not. You have a whole great big world here for you.
I just happened to stumble upon your blog tonight and read through the last couple of months for you. I can barely see to type through the tears...my heart is breaking for you. I pray the peace that passes all understanding stay with you.You are in my prayers.
Jessica: I continue to pray for you both each day. It is good that you are at home again even though that empty feeling is there - it probably follows you everywhere. Staying busy like you are has to help. The dresses are so cute that you and Cora's grandmas are making. Hope to be able to get some for my granddaughters. Stay strong and take care of Joel - he needs you too. Love, Peggy v
God Bless you + Joel.Your lovely
Cora was so beautiful.It inspires me to hear the strength you have and reminds me that every day is precious.
-Kathy
I have been following your blog for awhile now, and commented back a couple weeks ago. I said that your family and Cora have made me realize how important my son is and I was never going to take him for granted. Well, I wanted you to know that I have kept my word. My cleaning, errands, everything, has been put on hold. I spend my time enjoying him instead. He is what truly matters. Family is what matters. I feel so much pain for you and your husband, but I just want to say thank you for changing the way I view my life..God does work in mysterious ways. I will continue to pray for you everyday..
Oh how my heart aches for you both! I just cry everytime I see your beautiful little girl. Something about her just touches my soul. I admire your strength and love for God. I don't see how people make it through without him, especially when there is a loss of a loved one. Just remember you will see your precious little girl again one day, and thats a wonderful thought. You guys will continue to be in my prayers during this rough time. God Bless you both.
praying for you in Alabama!
You are truly inspiring. I hope you find a new normal and life gets "easier" (for lack of a better word) for you and your husband.
Many, many prayers for you and your family....I can't imagine how you make it day by day- empty house and all. Hugs!
All the etsy stuff is so cute!
I truly can't imagine what you're going through. Keeping you in my prayers!
God bless you two. I pray the Spirit of God takes all the prayers and love being sent to you and uses them to help you through your pain and grief. I just hope you know how much your honesty means--thank you.
Many tears have been shed, and I keep thinking of that hope that you speak of, when there will be no more tears, no more hurting or pain or sickness. I'm grateful for your honesty, and I'm sure there are things that you don't put on your blog (there are things I don't put on our blog! No one needs to know about all the hysteria...but the good stuff we like to share), but I hope you are able to just "be" when you are together, and remembering. I can't imagine what it's like, even though I can feel an ache for you. I think of you often at night, and pray for you both. I will continue to do so. I pray that God will help you to adjust to your home, in its new state. I pray that there can be peace, even moments at first. I pray that you will be able to keep trusting, clinging to the promises, knowing that the hope we have is true, and so valuable. It is a treasure. I know your memories are too. I pray that the Lord God Almighty, the great Comforter, the Healer and the One who lifts up those who are laid low, that He will hold you, each day, each minute of each day, and that you will be able always to go to Him with all of your struggles, doubts, confusion, sadness, love, joy, hope, and faith.
I wish I had your hold on Scripture-that is a pillar for you to stand on for sure. While I do think you guys are amazing, I know that it is God in you, and I also hope you allow yourselves to be who you need to be while you get through each day-that you do not feel pressure, or like you're living in a fish bowl. So many people are checking on you, and wanting to do something for you, and wanting you to be okay (even though there is nothing really that will make it that way...). I think it would be hard to be so "open". That is part of the beauty of your story, you have made yourselves so vulnerable. At any rate, this is a novel. I will keep praying for you, and I praise God that you have one another, and your family around you. You have amazing friends too, it seems. Let them love you, however you need to be loved and taken care of!
Thinking of you and praying for you daily in Michigan.
i loved that psalm you shared, and i pray that it brings some comfort to your aching hearts during this time. your faith, steadfastness and hope is such a testimony. thank you for that.
your blog friend,
randi in wichita, ks
thank you for sharing how God is sustaining you. continuting to pray for you. blessings, friend.
You have profoundly touched my life. Thank you for your faithfulness to God. Love you guys, thinking of you often. Thanks for keeping us posted on how you're doing!
I have been following your blog and praying for you both for several weeks now but this is the first I have posted a note for you. I have been encouraged by your faith. I can only imagine the grief you are going through and I pray that God wraps His arms around both of you every day and gives you peace. Many people have been blessed by Cora. I have been blessed also by your Faith in God. Hold on to His hand and He will walk you through this each day. As you said, you are taking this day by day. Love the dresses you and Cora's grammy's are making. I may have to buy one for my grand- daughter. :)
Be Blessed
Teri - CA
The arms that hold your precious Cora will continue to comfort you every day.
Bless you! Still in my prayers. What a strength yall are. (((HUGS)))
I lost my baby boy 11 months ago. His 1st b-day would be on Thursday. It's been a very rough year. God has taught me many lessons. The most recent being Phil 4. Rejoice in the Lord, Always. I had a hard time understanding how I could rejoice when my heart was broken. That's hard to do when your son dies but it is possible. I see that you are doing some of that already and I hope that you are able to continue to do so. I've read the stories of David and Job over and over again. I'm so grateful that God put them in there--it's a comfort to me. I felt the need to reach out because it was helpful to me to know that others had been through this and made it out. It takes time but it will get easier. Hugs from one mom to another. Trisha
My heart goes out to you and your family. We lost our son 10 months ago to SIDS. The situations surrounding the loss of our children may be different, but I understand that relentless ache and longing. Taking it day by day is all we can do. May God Bless you with peace & comfort.
Your faith should be an inspiration to us all. Your family continues to be in my thoughts and prayers.
You two are beautiful! I still ache for you. I love Jesus also...and I can't understand why this happened to Cora!
Jesus...I don't even know what to say, just do something for the Macs. Be what they need. Strengthen them in the deepest parts of themselves that ache so bad and feel they can't even go on, even though in their heads they know they will go on. Jesus, help.
You, two, are very loved and cherished by your Abba!
I can't even BEGIN to imagine.
My prayer for you is that today is easier than yesterday and tomorrow will be easier than today.
Numbers 6:22-27
The LORD bless you and keep you;
The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
The LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace."
You are an amazing couple with tremendous suffering and yet you will glorify HIM! Amazing......so incredible to read your blog and through it all you inspire others. What an awesome God we serve! Thank you for your faithfulness to Him through it all. May God continue to richly bless you and your husband.....you guys rock~
I'm not sure how, but I stumbled across your blog. I have spent the past hour reading your posts and crying for you, your family and your beautiful little girl. As a mom, my heart just aches for you both. Words aren't enough, but please know that I am praying for you all.
- Heather in NY
You have been heavy on my heart and in my prayers.
Surely our griefs He Himself bore,
And our sorrows He carried.
--Isaiah 53:4
I somehow bummed into your blog back in February. I remembered reading about little Cora and I couldn't stop crying. My children was wondering what was happening to me. I think I fell in love with Cora. She looked so much like my baby except that she was a bit lighter in her complextion. My baby is about two weeks younger than Cora. I cried because I could feel the pain you are going through (I still do till today when I read your post). I hold Peter everyday tighter than ever because we really do not know our days. I say "I love you" to my children everyday because I want to be sure to do it while I get the chance. I thank little Cora for the reminder. Peter's 1st birthday is coming up and I was hoping to get something for him from your shop. I love wooden toys but I don't see any and I have missed the blocks you offered a while back. I might look into the T-shirts.
Hang in there and know that a total stranger but sister in the Lord is praying for you.
In Him,
Jenny
I am praying for you.
I just found your blog and have been reading about this journey you on. I can't imagine your pain as I sit here bawling. I pray that you will continue to have peace in your hearts and minds and that Heavenly Father will continue to wrap his arms around you and your husband and give you comfort as well as for all of your extended family members. Thank you for sharing this very personal experience with everyone and showing your strength and faith in God. You have touched my life.
My prayers will be with you.
Karin
i have been reading your blog with tears in my eyes. cora was too perfect for this world and God had a different plan for her. how wonderful it is to know that she is no longer suffering and that she will always be watching over her very strong parents. what an inspiration you are to millions. we continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. when my dad was fighting cancer someone told me to always remember when life's too hard to stand, kneel.
a blog friend in idaho
Your strength through this unbelievable trial is amazing and awe inspiring. I only hope that I could ever face such a trial w/ as much grace as you have! My face is dripping w/ tears b/c I am so touched by your words! I am praying for you!
Joel and Jess,
I haven't forgotten to pray for you guys daily. It is just unbelievable the trial that you are having to go through right now. May God continue to be your strength and your ROCK! I am praying that you are able to cling to Him. I think that is right...the only thing you can do right now is cling to Him
What a sweet thing for you to do on Cora's birthday! I bet she enjoyed those pink balloons so much!!
Much love
Heather and my 2nd graders
I don't know if you remember them, but my brother Marc and sister-in-law Sarah met you at the Ronald McDonald House in Wichita. They had the twin girls born at 26 weeks. Sadly, Natalie didn't make it--she died on Feb 23 a week shy of 4 weeks old. Marleigh is doing well--still chugging along and for this we're grateful, though as you know, it's still hard on them to have lost Natalie. I think they too are just taking it "day by day" and hoping that God gives them the strength they need to face each day. Marc had said that having Marleigh is very bittersweet--they're thrilled to have their daughter, but will always feel the void of not having Natalie. I'll keep praying for you all--it has to be the worst pain in the world to lose your baby. May God bless you.
your blog just made me sob and sob i just found this from an email its been going through and through i just fowarded it to many of my friends, i too had cancer when i was three i am also a parent of a three yr. old daughter and am expecting another one. you will always be in my thoughts.
I sit here - tears streaming down my face - feeling the ache of your hearts - and holding on the ROCK with you; I don't even know you. My sister in law sent me to your blog to pray for you as your little Cora left this earth.
I am not married, the closest thing i have to kids are my four legged critters - i do have nieces and nephews; my family lost Oliver, my nephew, last year in January - he was still born...it was hard even then...so close yet just missing him. We draw hope and comfort from Christ.
Love the verse you shared.....He is on His Throne; He is good, and with us in our broken falling apart worlds....May He be ever closer to you - especially in the evenings. The pain will continue...the "hole" will never go away but He is with you.....ever close, ever loving, ever true.
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